All posts in “Stuff”

Lamborghini SC18 – A One-Off Lambo

Bespoke Lamborghini SC18 Built by Squadra Corse

The Lamborghini SC18 is the latest iteration of what we hope becomes a perpetual lineage of limited-edition and one-off raging bulls. In a relatively short and recent time in Lamborghini’s storied history, we have been treated to the likes of the Veneno (20 were made), and the one-off Egoista and Aventador J.

Commissioned by a very fortunate client, the SC18 is designed to be a completely road-legal car that maximizes track-oriented performance. It therefore seems serendipitous that Squadra Corse – Lamborghini’s racing division – would be the creator-in-chief for this bespoke project.

The canvas on which the SC18 would be imagined is the Aventador SVJ, which most notably is the donor of a 6.5L naturally-aspirated V12 engine; good for over 759-horsepower @ 8,800 rpm and 531 lb-ft of torque @ 6,750 rpm. A single clutch transmission with semi-automatic gearbox delivers power to the SC18’s all-wheel-drive system.

While the chassis is also shared with the SVJ, most of the body elements that are visible have been replaced with pieces that are inspired by the marque’s GT race cars such as the Huracan GT3 and Huracan Super Trofeo EVO. As such, the extensive use of carbon fibre and ultra aggressive splitters, vents and diffusers adorn the car with its massive rear wing providing the final exclamation point. A staggered wheel setup is used for the SC18, with Pirelli-wrapped 20” and 21” center-locking wheels used in the front and rear respectively.

There are no official figures at this time for the SC18 as far as performance and pricing are concerned.  We expect that acceleration will be mostly similar, if not the same, as the ‘regular’ Aventador SVJ’s 0-62 mph time of 2.8 seconds, as well as its top speed of 217 mph. With lighter and more aggressive aero bits, we are guessing that the improvements will be most noticeable during the most demanding and g-force-inducing situations at the racetrack.

As for pricing, we don’t expect that type of information to be common knowledge given the nature of this project. With today’s production hypercars demanding 7-figure price tags, one can only begin to speculate what the client has shelled out for their Mona Lisa on wheels. Well, with its custom exhaust which offers a completely “unique” sound, I’m sure he or she is ultimately very happy with what they got.  

November 20, 2018 / Comments Off on Lamborghini SC18 – A One-Off Lambo
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‘ReMastered: Tricky Dick and The Man in Black’ Official Trailer

In 1970, Johnny Cash received an invite to the White House to perform some tunes. This historic “gesture” did not sit well with Cash, however, after he discovered Richard Nixon’s true intentions to use Cash…

October 30, 2018 / Comments Off on ‘ReMastered: Tricky Dick and The Man in Black’ Official Trailer
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Introducing the New McLaren Speedtail: 250+ mph, 1000+ HP, $2.2M Pricetag. Wow.

Meet the new Speedtail – an aptly-named addition to McLaren’s Ultimate Series. This limited-edition car, of which only 106 examples will be built, represents McLaren’s unyielding pursuit of top-speed.

As of today, only three cars fall under McLaren’s Ultimate Series designation: the P1, the Senna, and now, the Speedtail. The Speedtail is also the first of 18 new models that McLaren intends to unveil between now and 2025.

Whereas other McLaren’s blend handling, acceleration, top speed, and driving dynamics in a harmonious package, the Speedtail has a more singular focus. And that focus is speed. Ludicrous amounts of it.

The Numbers

McLaren Speedtail Rear EndMcLaren Speedtail Rear End

What we know so far:

  • Power: 1,035 horsepower from a yet-undisclosed hybrid powertrain
  • Top Speed: 250mph (or more)
  • Acceleration: 0-186mph (300 kph) in just 12.8 seconds.
  • Weight: Approximately 830 kg
  • Price: $2.2 million price tag
  • 106 examples that are 100% sold

The Speedtail is a Blend of Sweeping Lines, Aggressive Bodywork, & Incredible Opulence

McLaren Speedtail Front EndMcLaren Speedtail Front End

Exterior

Looks are subjective and because of that I rarely oogle or outright proclaim how good looking a thing is (especially a car). We all have our tastes.

But an exception must be made for this McLaren. It is simply gorgeous and awe-inspiring on its own right; even if I didn’t already know that it was a machine capable of reaching speeds that no sane person would dare take it, on looks alone that message would be received loud and clear.

McLaren Speedtail Top ViewMcLaren Speedtail Top View

It’s one of the few cars today that elicits an inherently emotional response. One replete with all the superlatives you can think of, and perhaps those wouldn’t be enough to do the Speedtail justice.

McLaren Speedtail Rear 3/4McLaren Speedtail Rear 3/4

Its silhouette sweeps from the front of the car to the extended rear – a teardrop shape that is the key to its exceptional aerodynamics – with side accents that add an organic edge to its smooth profile. The front rims are enclosed – for maximum top-speed – while the rears remain exposed. The entire care oozes elegance, class, and barely-contained power that the lucky driver will be able to unleash.

McLaren Speedtail Door HandlesMcLaren Speedtail Door HandlesThe Speedtail features hidden door handles and dual rear ailerons that blend seamlessly into the bodywork. Panel gap tolerances of 1mm remove any visual break, resulting in a single smooth line that follows the car from head to tail.

This type of precision is possible thanks to new technology that incorporates flexible carbon fiber- the bodywork will move and bend with the car as it accelerates.

Because of this, there is no turbulent air. No drag. No loss of speed. No break for the eye to get distracted by.

McLaren Speedtail Rear AileronsMcLaren Speedtail Rear Ailerons

That unleashing of power, by the way, will take place in ultimate luxury. Let’s look inside.

Interior

McLaren Speedtail InteriorMcLaren Speedtail Interior

The cabin is perhaps the best example of luxurious minimalism taken to the nth degree. The center-aligned driver’s seat – reminiscent of the venerable F1 – gives the driver a commanding view of the road ahead. Slightly flanking the driver on either side are two passenger seats. The world’s fastest GT car is once again a three-seater.

McLaren Speedtail InteriorMcLaren Speedtail Interior

McLaren has managed to pay homage to its past while demonstrating how the future should look and feel. Three big screens make up the majority of the dash, and bleeding-edge technology is seamlessly incorporated throughout the car. Even the windshield, which features an electrochromic top section that can dim on command, is an example of the technological ability of the Speedtail.

McLaren Speedtail InteriorMcLaren Speedtail Interior

Long Live the Hyper GT

McLaren Speedtail Rear End`McLaren Speedtail Rear End`

McLaren has labeled the Speedtail a Hyper GT, which seems fitting given the excess of the car and its abilities. This is a car that’ll take you to 250mph, and then to the Opera, on the same set of tires (to paraphrase McLaren spokesperson Wayne Bruce).

More than that, the Speedtail is a car that reminds us that the automotive world serves to inspire and excite us as much as it does to move us from one place to the next. Though, in the case of the Speedtail, it very much moves us.

Video Overview

Care of Carfection.

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Gallery

October 26, 2018 / Comments Off on Introducing the New McLaren Speedtail: 250+ mph, 1000+ HP, $2.2M Pricetag. Wow.
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A Veteran Photographer on the Intimacy of Portraiture

Born in Southern California and raised from what he calls “humble beginnings,” Tim Davis has built an enviable career as a photographer. First starting out in graphic design, an internship at Patagonia eventually led him to shift his focus behind the lens. Now, 13 years into his tenure as a staff photographer at Patagonia, Davis spends the chunk of his time in the field, shooting gear in action, with refreshing reprieves in the studio and editing deskside.

By nature, most of Davis’ work in the outdoor space has required him to be somewhat removed, an observer documenting as a photojournalist. But in his free time, Davis has been taken by the more intimate nature of portraiture. He’s studied the work of the masters of the craft, recreating classic set-ups and dialing-in studio lighting. His go-to has been the Leica M10, favoring its history, timeless craftsmanship and slender design. Davis took us along on some of his recent portrait shoots, behind the curtain at Patagonia’s creative studios and into his own home workshop to share more about this nuanced form of photography and how he approaches it. Read on for a look into his world.

On becoming a photographer:
“I’ve had an affinity for still photography since I was a kid. My uncle was a special effects photographer in the film days back in the ‘70s-’80s in New York City. I remember being 7- or 8-years-old and visiting his studio, being really impressed. My grandfather also owned a little camera store. My first camera was a little Kodak; I can’t even remember what it was called. It had discs of film and I would blast through them. By the time I was 16 or 17, my mom got me my first SLR, which was a Minolta with three lenses. It wasn’t a quality camera but I thought it was amazing.

Initially, in college, I was a fine art major. But I came from pretty humble beginnings so I had to figure out how to make a little money. I knew I wanted to do something in the arts. But I knew being a fine art major and making fine art was a really sketchy gamble. At first, getting into graphic design was amazing because you start making a little bit of money, but it was too much computer time. When I was at UCSB in the Graphic Design Department, I freelanced at Patagonia doing graphic design. While I was freelancing as a graphic designer, I switched [disciplines] and went to Brooks Institute of Photography back when it was located in Santa Barbara. Photography and filmmaking was a really neat way to see the world and be out and shooting amazing stuff. You do still get some technical stuff. You work really hard and then you get back in the office and have a more civilized environment with a cup of coffee at 8:30 in the morning and you get to process.”


On portraiture:
“The drawback to outdoor photojournalistic photography, at least for me, is that it’s a lonelier experience. You’re not involved, ideally, in the making of a photo. You’re just there to document it. That’s a neat experience, but the advantage to portraiture is that you’re involved in creating the photo. Portraiture is a lot more intimate in that sense. You get to work with the subject. If you look at the Henri Cartier-Bresson approach to it, he looked at the camera as a tool. In a way, it could encumber the process if you let it. It was about you and me and if I did my job right, I really captured the moment. It’s as simple as that.

When you’re taking someone’s portrait, it’s case by case. When working with a professional athlete or model, someone who has been photographed a lot, it’s a really easy process. They do what they do and I do what I do, and hopefully, we make something really great. If you get someone that’s nervous in front of the camera, the direction becomes more nuanced. You want to evoke the right look but you don’t want to make them feel more nervous. It’s a delicate balance. We have a finite limit to how long we can be photographed; I think a human can be photographed for maybe 8 minutes.”

On shooting with the Leica M:
“For photojournalism, it’s really nice to show up with something small and lightweight and unobtrusive. If you show up with a big SLR, and you’re trying to be stealthy, it’s just not going to happen. If you show up with the Leica M with a small 50mm on it, they might not know you’re shooting amazing photos on it. And the beauty of a manual camera like the M is that it makes a different photo.

There is something really special about a camera that’s been relatively unchanged for 100 years. These really teeny beautiful lenses are handmade and these camera bodies still look the same. There’s something tactile. They’re heavy. It’s handmade with brass and glass and someone is making each one.”

Meet the Leica M10

Leica took its expertise from more than 60 years since launching the M Series — 11 making digital M Cameras — to create the Leica M10. It is the slimmest digital M ever made with dimensions as slender as analogue M-Cameras. Combining heritage with technology, the slim and elegant camera uses a specially developed 24 MP, full-frame CMOS sensor and a Maestro II image processor, delivering extended dynamic range as well as ISO values up to 50,000. Learn More




On photographic legends:
“I have a slight obsession with black and white portrait photographers. We don’t use a ton of portraiture here [at Patagonia], even less black and white, so developing those ideas happens outside of work. Researching the old images and techniques of the legends (like Avedon, Newton, Elgort, Demarchelier, Lindberg and so on) is so rewarding: a Bob Marley portrait shot on auto with Kodak film bought at the local drug store; Avedon teasing his subjects or his 8×10 wooden camera with a white seamless taped to a barn; Bresson’s 50mm that he shot his entire career; Nachtwey’s focusing techniques and Tri-X film; Capa and Gerda Taro and love, war and death; Mark Seliger’s brick studio stairwell; Leibovitz and box studios. There is so much to learn: the techniques, the mistakes, the complexities, simple solutions, love of the medium and their subjects, the heartbreak, drugs, death, insecurities or regrets. It’s all so amazing and so human. I’m fascinated with the old legends and their lore.

Everything that’s happening in photography has been done and has maybe been done 100 years ago. It’s at least been done 50 years ago. We’re almost 70 years past when Richard Avedon was at his prime and Irving Penn was at his prime — and the fashion magazines on every shelf today are clearly influenced by these guys. I’m just trying to pay homage to the legends.” — Tim Davis, Senior Photographer, Patagonia









October 26, 2018 / Comments Off on A Veteran Photographer on the Intimacy of Portraiture
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Get This Handsome Minimalist Dive Watch While You Still Can

Italian watch brand Unimatic has quickly become a darling in the watch space thanks to its handsomely modern aesthetic, accessible prices and, of course, limited releases, often done in collaboration with other brands. That’s made them somewhat hard to get a hold of, which is why you’re getting some advanced notice on their latest model: the U1-EG, done in collaboration with online retailer GOODS, one of the first retailers to carry Unimatic’s watches.

The U1-EG has many of the features and facets we’ve come to associate Unimatic with. It’s a dive-style watch, water-resistant to 300 meters, that features a minimalist bezel (in this case one devoid of markings save for a lume dot at 12 o’clock) and a chic-looking dial — the light-gray-over-navy colorway is especially appealing. Like other Unimatics, this is reasonably priced for what you get, coming in at $772, and with just 30 examples being made it’s sure to go fast. The watch goes on sale October 15th on GOOD’s website, so you have plenty of time to prepare.

October 10, 2018 / Comments Off on Get This Handsome Minimalist Dive Watch While You Still Can
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2019 Porsche 935 – Homage To ‘Moby Dick’ Race Car

Modern-day Porsche 935 Makes World Premiere at Rennsport Reunion

2018 continues to be an exciting year for Porsche and its fans, as the marque carries on celebrating its ‘70 years of Porsche Sports Cars’ milestone. Amongst many of the festivities taking place throughout the year, enthusiasts have been treated to the likes of the 919 Hybrid Evo world tour, the 911 Speedster, Project Gold and more discretely, the upcoming 992 generation 911.

As we approach the tail-end of this celebration, Porsche has unveiled another exclusive new car – the Porsche 935 – at the Rennsport Reunion event, taking place at Laguna Seca Raceway in California.

The new 935 is based on the popular 935/78 LM race car from the 1970s which was, given the name ‘Moby Dick’ due to its exterior shape and design – most notably the ‘whale tail’. This reimagined version certainly pays homage to those distinct characteristics, while also serving as the benefactor of modern performance technologies.

At the heart of the car is something from more recent memory – the same 3.8L twin-turbocharged flat-six used in the 2018 Porsche 911 GT2RS. The engine itself remains virtually unchanged for the 935, continuing to produce 700-horsepower to the rear wheels via a 7-speed PDK transmission.

Many of the car’s details are a nod and salute to vehicles from Porsche’s storied motorsport past – both recent and further along. The aerodynamically capped rims mimic those from the 935/78, the LED rear lights on the wing endplates were borrowed from the 919 Hybrid LMP1 race car, the side mirrors are the same used on the current 911 RSR, and the exposed titanium tailpipes are a tribute to the 1968 Porsche 908.

“This spectacular car is a birthday present from Porsche Motorsport to fans all over the world,” says Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, Vice President Motorsport and GT Cars. “Because the car isn’t homologated, engineers and designers didn’t have to follow the usual rules and thus had freedom in the development.”

The Porsche 935 will not be a road-legal car, and due to its non-homologated nature it is not currently eligible for any racing series at this time. This means that the 935 will likely only be seen at private track events or showings for the foreseeable future.

Pricing will start at €701,948 (over $815,500 USD) and there will be a very limited production run of only be 77 units, with delivery expected sometime in mid-2019.

Video

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Gallery

Technical Specifications per Porsche Newsroom

Concept:

  • Single-seater near-standard non-homologated race car.
  • Basis: Porsche 911 GT2 RS (991.2)

Weight/dimensions:

  • Weight: ca. 1,380 kg
  • Length: 4,865 mm
  • Width: 2,034 mm (incl. side mirrors)
  • Total height: 1,359 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2.457 mm

Engine:

  • Water-cooled 6-cylinder aluminium twin-turbo rear-mounted boxer engine and rigid suspension; 3,800 cc; stroke 77.5 mm; bore 102 mm; ca. 515 kW (700 hp)
  • 4-valve technology with camshaft adjustment and valve-lift switchover
  • Vario-Cam Plus
  • Electronic engine management (Continental SDI 9)
  • DMSB-approved 100-cell metal catalytic converter
  • Rear silencer with twin tailpipes mounted centrally, Heritage Design

Transmission:

  • 7-speed PDK gearbox with rigid suspension and short throw
  • Dual mass flywheel
  • Internal pressurised oil lubrication with active oil cooling
  • Limited slip differential optimised for racing

Bodywork:

  • Weight-optimised bodyshell in aluminium-steel composite design with carbon-fibre Kevlar add-on parts to improve aerodynamics and stability
  • Rear wing with lights integrated in endplates
  • Enlarged air inlets with integrated LED headlights in 4-point design
  • Removable escape hatch in roof complying with FIA Art. 275a
  • Aerodynamically optimised side mirrors
  • 115-litre FT3 safety fuel cell with fuel cut-off safety valve in compliance with FIA Art. 253 in the front, optional with fast-fill coupling
  • Welded-in safety cage
  • Recaro racing bucket seat with longitudinal seat adjustment and padding system in accordance with FIA Standard 8862/2009
  • 6-point safety harness
  • Air jack system (three jacks)
  • Fire extinguishing system with electronic release unit

Suspension:

Front axle:

  • MacPherson suspension strut; forged suspension links, optimised stiffness with high-performance spherical bearings, centre-locking wheel nuts; 3-way racing dampers, reinforced tie-rod; Electro-mechanical power steering with variable steering ratio; anti-roll bar

Rear axle:       

  • Lightweight multi-link suspension, strut ball jointed (Unibal); centre-locking wheel nuts; 3-way racing dampers; anti-roll bar

Brakes:

Brake system:

  • Two separate brake circuits for front and rear axles; adjustable via brake balance bar system

Front axle:

  • Six-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with anti-knock-back piston springs; steel brake discs, internally ventilated with 380 mm diameter, racing brake pads, optimised brake cooling ducts

Rear axle:

  • Four-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with anti-knock-back piston springs; steel brake discs, internally ventilated with 355 mm diameter, racing brake pads, optimised brake cooling ducts

Electrical system:

  • Instrument cluster consisting of COSWORTH ICD with integrated data logger, sport Chrono watch and boost gauge in a vintage finish
  • CFK multifunction steering wheel with pit speed limiter and quick-release coupling
  • PSM (Porsche Stability Management) with ABS, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (able to be completely switched off)
  • Centre console with map switch to adjust the ABS, ESC, TC and switch between preset tyre circumferences
  • Porsche Track Precision Race App
  • Integrated lap trigger
  • Lightweight lithium-ion (Li-Fe-Po-) battery, 60 Ah, leakproof, mounted in passenger footwell
  • Emergency cut-off switch in cockpit and outside left of the windscreen
  • Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
  • Air conditioning

Rims/Tyres:

Front axle:      

  • One-piece light-alloy forged wheels
  • 11.5J x 18 offset 15.3 with centre-locking nut; Michelin transport tyres 29/65-R18

HA:     

  • One-piece light-alloy forged wheels
  • 13J x 18 offset -10 with centre-locking nut; Michelin transport tyres 31/71-R18

Colour:

Agate gray water-based paint; optional: Martini livery

October 2, 2018 / Comments Off on 2019 Porsche 935 – Homage To ‘Moby Dick’ Race Car
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Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2

The new Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 were unveiled yesterday at the Capital Market’s Day at the factory in Maranello (Ferrari also announced 15 new models you may want to check out). These limited-edition special-series Ferraris are the first in a new category that Ferrari calls ‘Icona’, essentially custom cars made for collectors. The company has experience with building special edition and one off Ferraris for collectors so this seems like a natural extension. The Icona cars will essentially be cars that look like classic yesteryear racers, underpinned with the latest chassis, electronics and engines. Think of classic Ferraris of the 1950s coupled with the most advanced sports car technology available today and you pretty much nailed it.

The first iteration of the program is the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2. Reminiscent of racing barchettas of that late 1940s and early 1950s, both cars look amazing. The Ferrari Monza SP1 is a single-seat sports car with no windscreen while the Ferrari Monza SP2 is a more classic two-seater. Both cars feature no roof, no windscreen and no side air bags.

Both the Monza SP1 and SP2 are based on the Ferrari 812 Superfast and come with a 6.5 liter V12 engine with 810 hp to the rear wheels. Aluminum chassis and carbon fiber body make for a lightweight car and absurd power to weight ration. Expect sub 3 second sprint from standstill to 60 mph and scintillating 7.9 seconds to 125 mph. Top speed will be around 186 mph.

We don’t think these cars will be approved for road use, so expect them to be track-day only machines.  Maybe that is why Ferrari said buyers will get a racing jumpsuit designed by Italian high-end luxury brand Loro Piana. Speaking of buyers, only a maximum of 500 units will be produced although we expect that this is slightly inflated and that we will only see a few hundred units max.

If you’re looking for a 1950’s style design with modern technology underneath and you like to track your cars, this may be the Ferrari for you. All you have to do is pony up the more than a million dollars these cars will cost.

We stated the obvious earlier, that the SP1 is a single seater, while the SP2 is a two-seater. That is the biggest design difference as it impacts other parts of the car. The Monza SP1 has a tonneau cover while the SP2 gets rid of the cover to make room for the second passenger. There is small windscreen and a second roll bar hoop in the SP2 which further differentiates the designs.

At the front, both cars have carbon fiber front slitter which resides below a wide grille and protruding LED daytime running lights. Bigger changes occur further back as the windscreen has been removed and this promises to give owners a taste of the “blistering speed” that Formula 1 drivers experience.

Further back, the models have been equipped with unique half-doors that open upwards. They provide access to a compact cabin which features a three-spoke steering wheel, special switchgear and plenty of exposed carbon fiber components.

Getting back to the windscreens for a second, Ferrari says they have developed and patented an innovative “Virtual Wind Shield” technology which is integrated into the fairing ahead of the instrument panel. While it doesn’t look like much, Ferrari says the virtual windscreen deviates enough air to maintain driving comfort.

Ferrari was coy on additional details, but the Monzas have a 6.5-liter V12 that is the “most powerful engine Maranello has ever built.” It produces 799 hp (603 kW / 810 PS) and 530 lb-ft (719 Nm) of torque. This enables the cars to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 2.9 seconds and 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in 7.9 seconds. If the driver is brave enough, they can hit a top speed in excess of 186 mph (300 km/h).

Press Release

THE FIRST MODELS IN A NEW CONCEPT OF LIMITED-EDITION SPECIAL SERIES CALLED ‘ICONA’
The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 unveiled – Iconic cars whose sophisticated design and engineering is inspired by legendary Ferrari Sports cars of the past

Maranello, 18 September 2018 – The new Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 have been unveiled on occasion of the company’s Capital Market’s Day at the factory in Maranello. These limited-edition special-series cars are the first in a new segment called ‘Icona’ and draw inspiration from the most evocative Ferraris of the 1950s and feature the most advanced sports car technology available today.

Aimed at dedicated clients and collectors, the Monza SP1 and SP2 reference the iconic Ferrari racing barchettas of the past, not least the 1948 166 MM, which originally inspired the name ‘barchetta’, and the 750 Monza and 860 Monza. Designed with the sole aim of winning, these uncompromising models helped build the Ferrari legend in the 1950s by delivering numerous victories in the World Sports Car Championship.

The Ferrari Monza SP1 was designed as an uncompromising single-seat road car that offers a truly unique experience behind the wheel. The second configuration, the Monza SP2, thanks to the elimination of the tonneau cover and the addition of a second protective screen and a second roll-bar, is instead a two-seater enabling the passenger to share the same driving sensations.

The Monza SP1 and SP2 feature a unique design, the best weight-to-power ratio of any barchetta, thanks to the extensive use of carbon-fibre in construction, and distinctive details, such as head-and tail-lights, wheels and interior, which further enhance the cars’ exclusivity. Equipped with the most powerful engine Maranello has ever built, a 810 cv V12, they can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 7.9 seconds.

The architecture of the two cars is based on a monolithic form with an aerodynamic wing profile where the complete absence of a roof and windscreen gave the designers the freedom to create unique proportions that would not have been possible on a traditional spider.

The result is the feeling of blistering speed normally only experienced by Formula 1 drivers, which derives from the concept of a cockpit carved from the car’s very volume that wraps around the driver.

The Ferrari Design Centre has sought to create a very pure design, as though born of a single pencil stroke, to convey an ideal of timeless elegance, minimalist form and refined detail. Visually complex solutions, such as those seen on recent racing cars, have been avoided, giving way to a more understated formal design language. Never has a model expressed such a narrative power, highlighting its appeal as a driver’s car where the link between man and automobile becomes symbiotic.

A radical choice was made for the design of the cars’ compact doors which open upwards. Equally important is the all-carbon-fibre one-piece bonnet-wing assembly which is hinged at the front to showcase the imposing V12 engine once open.

As with racing models, the bodyshell of both cars is made entirely from lightweight carbon-fibre. The entire interior is trimmed in the same material with a natural finish to enhance the sporty impact of the design. Weight reduction and the ‘barchetta’ configuration guarantee unique vehicle dynamics: perfectly balanced with no roll whatsoever for pure, uncompromising sports-car handling.

Because these are authentic “en plein air” sports cars, one of the greatest challenges in their design was managing the aerodynamic flows inside the cockpit in the absence of a windscreen. The solution was the innovative patented “Virtual Wind Shield” which has been incorporated into the fairing ahead of the instrument panel and the steering wheel. The “Virtual Wind Shield” deviates a part of the air flow to maintain driving comfort.

Especially for Monza SP1 and SP2 owners Ferrari, in collaboration with two leading luxury brands, Loro Piana and Berluti, has created elegant gentlemen-driver-inspired apparel and accessories. The driver’s selection includes racing overalls, jersey, helmet, gloves, scarf and driving shoes. These feature a number of technical solutions to guarantee a comfortable fit and ensure freedom of movement while driving.

Engine & Specifications

While Ferrari were a little light on the specs for the Monza cars, we did manage to find the following information on the cars.

ENGINE
Type V12 – 65°
Overall displacement 6496 cm3
Max. power output* 603 kW (810 cv) at 8500 rpm
Max. torque* 719 Nm at 7000 rpm
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
Length 4657 mm
Width 1996 mm
Height 1155 mm
Dry weight** 1500 kg (SP1), 1520 kg (SP2)
PERFORMANCE
0-100 km/h 2.9 sec
0 -200 km/h 7.9 sec
Max. speed >300 km/h
FUEL CONSUMPTION/CO2 EMISSIONS
Under homologation

Photo & Image Gallery

Ferrari Monza SP1 Pictures

These open-top Ferraris are absolutely stunning. We pulled all the press images and photos of both the Monza SP1 and SP2. The SP1 has the single seat old-school LeMans racer about it. We love the silhouette and simplicity of its design.

Ferrari Monza SP2 Pictures

With its two-seat layout the SP2 is a more traditional set up. Despite the two-seats it still is stunning and sexy from every angle. These photos of the SP2 in black with that red interior really make it stand out. For me this is my favorite of the two.

Ferrari Monza SP1 & SP2 Unveiling

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September 19, 2018 / Comments Off on Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2
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Ferrari to launch 15 new models by 2022 (including its most powerful road car ever)

Ferrari Unveils Ambitious Plans In A New Model Assault – Special Editions, Hybrids, Hypercar and SUV

We don’t normally talk about news but this is too tasty. Ferrari had is Capital Markets Day where they basically sell investors on their future plans. It is unique for Ferrari since the company has only been public for a short time. While some readers may be investors, we really care about the cool new cars the company is working on.

The best Ferrari ever is the one that has yet to be builtEnzo Ferrari

Ferrari’s 5 Year Plan Is a Model Onslaught

The headline news is that under a new five-year strategy under a new boss Ferrari will launch 15 new models by 2022. Those kinds of model numbers sound like McLaren, maybe Ferrari is learning from its newest production car competitor. As long as the cars are awesome, we’re excited.

Ferrari broker out its model range into a clearer four pillar set up. The Sport range are the cars we know as today as the 488, 812 Superfast. The Sport range will confirm Ferrari as a leader in performance and future models will feature hybridization as well as a track-oriented human machine interface. In particular, the automaker said we can expect a “two tier mid rear engine product range” and a “full hybrid range by 2021.” Ferrari went on to say the 488 successor will be focused on being fun to drive and hinted the Sport range could be expanded in the future.

The Gran Turismo range includes the GT4Lusso and Portofino. The lineup of GTs will grow in the future and there are already plans for plug-in hybrid variants. Sticking with the GT theme, Ferrari hinted at the return of an elegant model which has a “unique design inspired by the classic and refined Ferrari Gran Turismo of 1950s and 1960s.” Yes please Ferrari, make it happen.

Next up is our favorite Special Series range, with cars like the 488 Pista (historically included 458 Speciale, F430 Scuderia). Special Series vehicles will also be sold in limited numbers. Not surprisingly these models are all about driving emotions.

They will now be joined by an Icona range which will apparently include highly customized vehicles like the Monza SP1 and SP2. The name has been chosen to reference the firms famous racing cars of the 1950’s. The SP1 has only one seat while the SP2 allows for one passenger. The company has had great success with limited edition and custom Ferraris over the years so it is no surprise they are investing more here.

Announcing the Ferrari Monza

Ferrari announced a new limited-edition open-top racing-style supercar. Called the Monza it will come in single-seater and two-seater versions as part of the new range called Icona. Ferrari will build fewer than 500 of the two models combined and all have already been sold.

The Monza is intended as a successor to the classic Barchetta, a racing car made by the firm in the 1940s and 1950s. Ferrari claims they are fitted with the most powerful engine ever built by the Italian car maker. It will have an 810-horsepower V-12 engine.The Monza’s bodyshell is built entirely from carbon fibre and neither model comes with a roof or windscreen. Ferrari said a “virtual wind shield” is placed behind the instrumentation panel to push air flow above the driver who is sat in a Formula 1 style cockpit. The car will take just 2.9 seconds to reach 60 mph. Think more than a $1m for this tasty treat and you’re close.

The luxury sports car maker took the wraps off the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 at the firm’s famous Maranello factory in Italy on Tuesday.

A New Supercar to Replace LaFerrari

Ferrari’s replacement for LaFerrari hypercar is three to five years from launch, according to chief technology officer Michael Leiters. A new hypercar, or replacement for the LaFerrari, is not in the brand’s mid-term plan but the company did confirm work is under way on the technology that will feature in its successor.

Set to be ‘born from fresh innovations’, the LaFerrari’s limited-edition replacement is set to be revealed before 2022.

Selling Mostly Hybrids

Ferrari expects that Hybrid powertrains will make up the majority of its sales at the end of 2022. Clearly the company is investing in a world where the majority of its well healed buyers will want low emissions performance cars.

“By 2022, nearly 60 percent of the models we produce will be built around hybrid powertrains,” new CEO Louis Camilleri said. Ferrari is focused on hybrid petrol-electric powertrains and expects its new SUV will feature this hybrid set up.

The company will increasingly make hybrid cars “as the years unfold to meet specific regulatory requirements but also to satisfy customer desires for significantly improved emissions while retaining the driving emotions that render Ferraris simply unique,” said Camilleri (new CEO).

Ferrari SUV On Its Way

In the worst secret ever Ferrari is launching its first SUV, called the Purosangue. It is going to arrive at the end of the five-year strategic plan period, around 2022.

Announcing the SUV, former Philip Morris boss Camilleri said he hated the idea (didn’t we all): “It just does not sit well with our brand and all that it represents,” he admitted, but guaranteed investors that the new design will “redefine expectations”. Describing it as “elegant, powerful, versatile, comfortable, spacious… worthy of the Ferrari badge,”. Lets hope so.

The Purosange will sit in Ferrari’s GT range and be based on a new front-mid engine architecture compatible with plug-in hybrid technology. The GT line-up is designed to ‘expand the Ferrari family’ and cover ‘growing market segments’.

New V6 Engine Range

On the topic of new models, Ferrari confirmed plans of a V6 engine family. There are also plans for a “Turbo Hybrid” family of engines which will produce 394+ hp (294 kW / 400 PS) per liter and have zero turbo lag. Under the guidance of new CEO Louis Carey Camilleri, 60 per cent of the Italian firm’s products will feature hybrid technology within the next four years. Key to that will be the development of a new V6 hybrid powertrain, which Ferrari has confirmed is under development.

Ferrari bosses would not be drawn on speculation that the V6 engine is for a new generation of Dino, but did say that the engine will be used as a lower performance entry point for models such as the Portofino.

Higher Prices

Chief marketing officer Enrico Galliera said new Ferrari models would come with a “significant” increase in the average price. Boo to that we say. May need to focus on my affordable used Ferraris list then.

Learn More

If you want to dig into the details, download the Presentations from the Capital Markets Day:

September 18, 2018 / Comments Off on Ferrari to launch 15 new models by 2022 (including its most powerful road car ever)
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Bonobos Is Now Making Clothes That Every Guy Can Fit Into

It’s hardly a new complaint that brands on the higher end of the clothing spectrum don’t really cater to guys with bigger bodies. What’s newer is a mainstream label actually doing something about it.

On Monday, Bonobos announced that it would dramatically expand the number of sizes it offers. And that doesn’t mean the clothes are just getting bigger. They’ve also been carefully re-engineered to accommodate the needs of men with larger frames.

So while pant waists will go past size 40″ all the way to size 54″, the new extended-size trousers will also include an increased pitch. (The pitch refers to the back-to-front angle of how pants sit on a man’s waist; the increase in this angle accommodates guys who wear their trousers below their bellies.)

The same goes for shirts. The sizing can now fit guys with 22-inch necks. The new shirts have a lowered front drop, so they sit lower on the neck, and a feature two-piece sleeve that follows the arm’s natural curve. Suit jackets have proportionally larger lapels, but there’s also a dart underneath them to prevent the break that can sometimes occur with traditionally made blazers.

Everything has been considered. Suit pants have elastic in their waistbands to allow for weight fluctuation. Polos and sweaters now go up to size 4XL. The ties are longer and wider, and their new back loop had to be re-positioned three times before co-president Brad Andrews was confident they’d gotten it right.

He and the rest of the Bonobos team have poured a lot of time and energy into making sure they get everything right. The same goes for how bigger guys feel when they visit Bonobos stores. “The main goal in store is to make that experience feel the same for extended sizing shoppers as it does for guys who shop our current assortment; we want them to feel apart of the Bonobos family and not treated like an afterthought,” Andrews said. “As one of our main goals with this launch is to learn from and grow with the customer, we want to understand how customers are coming into the Guideshop to shop the extended size assortment. Based on those learnings, we will continue to innovate on how we merchandise this product in-store as well as roll out new styles and fit options.”

And from a brand obsessed with fit, what else would you expect?

September 10, 2018 / Comments Off on Bonobos Is Now Making Clothes That Every Guy Can Fit Into
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Millions of dollars of smuggled exotica crushed in the Philippines

Here at Supercars.net – in case you haven’t noticed – we love supercars.

That’s why this footage of millions of dollars worth of supercars, classic cars and other precious metal is so painful to watch.

More than 60 luxury and high performance cars and motorbikes were destroyed by Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte as part of an anti-corruption campaign.

The expensive metal had been smuggled into the country illegally in attempts to evade the country’s tax regime that makes buying and importing high value cars prohibitively expensive.

Any car costing more than 2.1 million Philippine Piso (around $39,550) is classified as a luxury vehicle, and hit with a PhP 512,000 tax, plus a further levy of 60% on any amount above PhP 2.1 million.

For something like a base model Porsche 911 Carrera, on sale in the US from $91,100, that would push its cost from the PhP 4.8 million price tag up to PhP 8.25 million – or $155,400 at today’s exchange rate.

The Philippines tax on luxury cars means vehicles like the Porsche 911 Carrera are significantly more expensive to buyThe Philippines tax on luxury cars means vehicles like the Porsche 911 Carrera are significantly more expensive to buy
The Philippines tax on luxury cars means vehicles like the Porsche 911 Carrera are significantly more expensive to buy

If you can’t bear to watch the footage then turn away – in the clip cars sentenced to a crumpled end by bulldozer include a Lamborghini Gallardo, a Porsche 911 Carrera S, a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Nissan 350Z and a Ford Mustang from what we can see.

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And this isn’t the first time Duterte has put on such a public display of automotive destruction in the name of combatting corruption. As the clip below attests, he has form for this kind of thing.

Beware – clip includes graphic footage of a C3 Corvette meeting its end.

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August 2, 2018 / Comments Off on Millions of dollars of smuggled exotica crushed in the Philippines
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These Are the 5 Best American Whiskeys, According to More Than 50 Experts

Only five American whiskeys were won golds at this year’s International Spirit Challenge, most of which are surprisingly available. The 23rd year of the competition, which wrapped earlier this week, featured its usual rigorous blind tasting judging process as well as entrants from more than 70 countries around the world (they judge far more than just whiskey). These five award winners took home the highest honor for individual bottles and, for the most part, can be found at spirits stores nationwide.

Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This is not the 10-year variety of Eagle Rare’s first award. It’s not even its 10th or 20th. Going back to its gold in the very same competition in 2003, this Buffalo Trace umbrella brand’s bottle has been storming spirit competitions since it first landed on the scene. Eagle Rare 10-year took gold in the Straight Bourbon 10 years old and under category, one of three American whiskeys to do so.

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength

“This is Maker’s Mark Bourbon in all its glory.” That’s how the brand describes its award-winning high proof bourbon. Since its released a few years back, the cask strength bottle has raked in a consistent flow of excellent reviews and is fairly available nationwide. The Maker’s Mark bottle was another American whiskey winner in the Straight Bourbon 10 years old and under subcategory.

Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The only American whiskey to steal a gold in the Single Barrel Bourbon category is another distiller in Buffalo Trace’s portfolio, and is similarly used to taking home big time awards — best bourbon whiskey multiple times over at the International Whisky competition and best bourbon at the World Whiskies Awards. This bottle will run you $100 or more and has a long, tobacco-laden finish.

Kentucky Owl Rye #1

The gold for American Straight Rye Whiskey went to a semi-expected favorite. Kentucky Owl’s #1 Rye Whiskey release was the highest scoring whiskey in Whiskey Advocate’s summer 2018 archives, where it was described about as complex as can be: “Long, rounded notes of caramel, cinnamon roll, taffy, butterscotch, brisket burnt ends, nutmeg, Jamaican jerk, plum pudding, ginger, light sassafras, root beer, roasted marshmallow, cotton candy, orange peel, raw honey, and pie crust.”

1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The last of the gold Straight Bourbon 10 years old and under winners is a different bottle from the same distillery that claimed Best Bourbon Whiskey at the World Whiskies Awards earlier this year (for the second year in a row, mind you). Its Small Batch variation is more affordable, lower proof and has been pulling golds, double golds and “bests” since 2010.

July 20, 2018 / Comments Off on These Are the 5 Best American Whiskeys, According to More Than 50 Experts
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The New McLaren Longtail is Here!

News from Woking is that the new McLaren 600LT is out and about, ready to eat asphalt! With new carbon fiber body, a fixed wing, it got slightly longer but still looks cool. The 600 stands for 600 metric horsepower or 600PS. It has a twin-turbo V8 engine, pushing out… Well, 600 metric horses.

It’s iconic because only a select McLaren cars get the honor to be called a ‘Longtail’. Focused for track aerodynamics, a McLaren LT is all about speed and the driver. Bare bones fun, it’s going to be an epic car. We’re just so happy that McLaren is pushing out hit after hit in the last 5 years or so.

Decked out in carbon fiber everything, and integrated exhausts, the 600LT is bound to catch someone’s eye. It starts out at over $200,000 and good luck trying to get an allocation. Here’s what it looks like sideways,

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June 29, 2018 / Comments Off on The New McLaren Longtail is Here!
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Goodbye, Agera RS! New Koenigsegg on the Horizon

On the recent Koenigsegg press release, the company went to Australia to open the first factory-authorized full-service dealership in the country. With all the hoopla, they invited the cream of the crop of collectors and enthusiasts to enjoy the sights and sounds of high society.

There were drinks, a black CCR and an orange CCX on display. Cool beans.

Wait a minute, what’s this?

Looks like they also got the first glance of the new hypercar replacing the Agera RS,

The press release gave this little tidbit of information,

As all Regeras were sold prior to Koenigsegg’s arrival in Australia, this eagerly anticipated new vehicle – due for its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2019 – is the only new model available to Australian buyers at present. Keen customers also had access to the same virtual-reality presentation of the vehicle that was made available to VIP’s at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.

Aussies sure know how to have fun!

June 27, 2018 / Comments Off on Goodbye, Agera RS! New Koenigsegg on the Horizon
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“Is That a Supra?!” Yes, It Is! New Supra In Production

Awesome news from Motoring Research, where it has been announced that the new Toyota Supra will be in production for 2019. That’s great news for hardcore enthusiasts, who will be given an opportunity to own a legendary Toyota nameplate.

The Supra will be priced higher than the entry-level GT86 but no specs or pricing has been released as of yet.

The interesting part is that Toyota has partnered with BMW for this new vehicle, similar to how Toyota and Subaru produced the GT86/BRZ. The Supra/Z4 platform will share the same straight-six engine and gearbox but will have different calibration based on company wants and desires,

“It’s very difficult to make a viable business case for sports cars, but our young engineers are reaping the benefits of working in Gazoo Racing – and with BMW.”

As mentioned earlier, Toyota is also preparing a race-spec version of the Supra through GRMN or Gazoo Racing Masters of Nurburgring. So get out your class cleaner folks, because you’ll be snapping necks very soon with this new release.

June 19, 2018 / Comments Off on “Is That a Supra?!” Yes, It Is! New Supra In Production
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Priority’s Newest Bike is All-Terrain, Yet Still Low-Maintenance

From Porsche to a 12-Speed

Priority’s Newest Bike is All-Terrain, Yet Still Low-Maintenance

June 14, 2018  |   By Meg Lappe

Here at Gear Patrol, we’re big fans of Priority’s low maintenance, high reward bikes. I tested out the Classic NeverFlat for a couple of weeks and now have been riding the company’s Classic Plus Gotham Edition for about a month. Priority continues to push the envelope on bikes that are a joy to ride and easy to maintain. Today, Priority launches the Priority 600; a car-inspired bike meant to ride on roads, gravel and dirt without breaking a sweat.

The 12-Speed Pinion Gearbox was designed by two former Porsche transmission engineers to offer loads of power and adventure to every single rider. It sits between the pedals so you won’t feel a weird weight imbalance and it only needs to be oiled every 6000 miles — plenty enough for any commuter.

Paired with the same great gates carbon belt drive and all-weather composite fenders, this bike is geared up and ready to go for all the excursions you can think up. The bikes start shipping on June 18th and if you use code VELOFIX600, you’ll get a free Velofix white glove delivery.

Today in Gear

The best way to catch up on the day’s most important product releases and stories. Read the Story
June 14, 2018 / Comments Off on Priority’s Newest Bike is All-Terrain, Yet Still Low-Maintenance
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Apollo Automobil Gets Help from DTM Masters

The madmen behind the Gumpert, Apollo Automobil, will get some assistance from a DTM legend.

Top Gear reports that Apollo partnered with HWA AG, the same firm who helped Mercedes-Benz perfect the CLK-GTR,

The scope of this [HWA] partnership will focus on development areas such as safety, reliability, powertrain calibration, and thermal dynamics, including computational fluid dynamics work to assist Apollo with its ‘Race to Road’ strategy that involves the application of learnings from the race track into the development of the dual purpose nature of the Apollo IE. This partnership gives Apollo access to HWA’s globally renowned engineering expertise, technologies and world-class facilities.

HWA created the CLK-GTR, the DTM vehicle titan of the 1990s and dominated the scene.

The makers of the Gumpert recorded the fastest Power Lap time on the Top Gear test track in 2008 with 1:17.1. This private company from Germany looks to make an impact in the supercar market with the upcoming 769 hp Intensa Emozione. Featuring a 6.3L naturally aspirated V12, this new supercar will get the blessing it deserves through HWA.

June 12, 2018 / Comments Off on Apollo Automobil Gets Help from DTM Masters
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Happy 70th, Porsche. Here’s a New Concept Car!

Over the weekend, Porsche all around the world celebrated their 70th anniversary, when Ferdinand Porsche produced the 1948 Porsche 356. To honor this milestone, Porsche debuted a new concept car called the 911 Speedster Concept. 

Essentially an open-top 911 GT3, it has a very spartan interior with carbon fiber seats, no creature comfort, and many miles of the sky on top of you. Powering this beast is the same 4 liter flat six engine with 493hp, a manual slushbox and everything you expect from a GT3. Classic details include the Fuchs-style wheels, tape-designed headlamps which rally racers did back then to prevent breakage, bullet mirrors, hood-mounted fuel filter, and the tan interior.

No announcement on release just yet, but cross fingers it’s very soon.

Cylinders
Displacement
Power (hp)
Max RPM
Max torque
6
4.0L
500
8,250rpm
460 Nm
June 10, 2018 / Comments Off on Happy 70th, Porsche. Here’s a New Concept Car!
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Ferrari ‘Holy Grail’ Sold For Many Monies

They probably didn’t use Craigslist for this one, but a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO was sold privately for $70 million USD.

Sky News reported that one of the only 36 250 GTO’s in existence was rumored to have been sold to a classic Ferrari collector, David MacNeil. The founder of WeatherTech, those great custom-made floor mats for your car, purchased the vehicle which has a 3.0L race-proven Tipo 168/62 Comp V12 engine with six Weber carburetors and 300 horsepower.

This recent sale made this the most expensive car ever sold, beating the previous record set by another 250 GTO in 2013.

Meanwhile, I have issues trying to get a Best Offer on eBay… Such is life.

June 7, 2018 / Comments Off on Ferrari ‘Holy Grail’ Sold For Many Monies
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Electric Lamborghini? Maybe Next Time

So just when we thought we’d have a competitor to the Tesla Model S, we get terrible news. Auto News reports that Lamborghini has no plans to go full electric because battery technology today can’t provide the power that Lamborghini customers expect. Maurizio Reggiani, Director Research and Development, says,

“Our target is to deliver a super sports car, and these specifications don’t exist with a battery package in terms of energy and power”

Right now, Lamborghini is waiting on vast improvements in electric technology before going down the path of producing a full-electric supercar. The hard part is that roaring V10 and V12s provide something that electric cars don’t: sound which can convert to a supercar’s ‘soul’.

Is this nonsense or do you feel that a supercar should emote something to the driver to be connected? Is brute force enough to provide that emotion?

Let us know!

June 7, 2018 / Comments Off on Electric Lamborghini? Maybe Next Time
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